Arizona Governor signs legislation for boost in kinship care stipend

PHOENIX (KYMA, KECY) - Arizona Governor Doug Ducey signed a legislation for grandparents and relatives to receive a boost in monthly stipends if they are raising children in kinship care.

“Today I signed H.B. 2274 to bring much needed support to kinship families in Arizona – especially grandparents who have stepped up to raise their grandchildren when the parents were unable to safely do so,” began Governor Ducey. “For too long, these grandparents have been given a dramatically lower level of support than foster parents — but that is about to end. I called for this important reform in my State of the State Address in January, and I am very pleased to sign it into law today. Arizona is so grateful to all those who support children in DCS care: kinship families, foster families, non-profit organizations providing support, Court Appointed Special Advocates, and case workers. Many thanks to Representative Jeff Weninger for sponsoring this bill, and for all the work he has done to protect vulnerable children and families throughout his years in the legislature.

The kinship stipend was raised from $75 a month to $300 a month.

“Raising the kinship stipend is so important for Arizona families,” said Rep. Weninger. “Having a familial relationship at home sets our kids on the right path and eases the transition for reunification. Too many selfless grandparents and close family members couldn’t afford to be kinship caregivers. Now, we’ll help keep these families together. Thank you to Governor Ducey for his long-standing support for kinship and foster families.”